Volkswagen Jetta

The Volkswagen Jetta wears a more grown-up look, resembling its B7 Passat bigger brother. The interior features decorative wood, chrome surrounds along with black plastic trim.

A digital display instrument cluster provides different detailing- from temperature to other parameters. The 5-inch touchscreen display radio comes with USB slot and iPod interface, AUX-IN, Bluetooth, Mirror Link, SD card slot, and 6 speakers which produce superb audio quality and so deserves a special mention. There are also rear air conditioning vents and dual-zone automatic air-con system.

There are plenty of storage options, from the front seat-back pockets, four cup holders on the centre console storage box, and bins on the four doors. There are two 12V power sockets for front and rear occupants. The Jetta takes all credits for providing practical usage and new design utility.

The Volkswagen Jetta incorporates the new redefined aerodynamic and elegant design lines. The chrome radiator grille and front & rear fog lights are the new highlights of the model. The standard exterior elements seen on all Jetta variants includes automatic headlights with daytime running lights, powered wing mirrors, puddle lights, integrated turn signals, side and rear window LEDs, heat insulated windshield, rear license plate lights, wipers, static cornering light, twin exhaust tailpipes, and rear and front parking sensors.

A total of four colors are available on the revised Jetta- Candy White, Platinum Grey, Reflex Silver, and Deep Black.

The suspension is well put-up and provides a nice balance between sporty driving and ride comfort. The speed-sensitive electric power steering is precise and responsive. Running on 205/55 R16 tyres, the Jetta provides good grip on all roads (dry or wet) and seasons.

The drive quality is quite refined to provide better sound insulation.  The driver and passenger are hardly bothered by the external noise on the road created by motorcycles and trucks.

Handling is outstanding, with a little body when cornering at speed, and the Jetta generally provides a planted, confidence-inspiring drive quality. The 7-speed DSG gearbox is a star performer and no paddle shifters are available.

The new 1.4 TSI direct-injection four-cylinder mill sports a single turbocharger instead of the outgoing model’s twin-charger (a supercharger and a turbocharger) unit.

The maximum power generated is 150 PS and the peak torque is 250 Nm at 1,500 to 3,500 rpm. Power goes to the front axle via a seven-speed dry dual-clutch automatic with manual override, propelling the updated Jetta from 0-100 kmph in 8.6 seconds, to a 220 Kmph top speed. The new auto engine starts/stop function automatically switches off the mill when the car comes in standstill position at traffic signal stoppage.

The Coasting function which is not common and is seen only in highly priced premium cars is available in the Volkswagen Jetta. It saves fuel by decoupling the engine from the powertrain when the driver's foot is taken off from the accelerator pedal. This allows the vehicle to coast and roll over a longer distance, with the momentum of the vehicle used to save the fuel. The engine is re-engaged when the accelerator pedal, brake or the gear selector lever is operated.

The Jetta comes equipped with multi-collision brake control, which stops the vehicle when the system detects an airbag deployment, in an event of a frontal collision.

Standard safety kit for all variants includes six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS), anti-pinch windows on all four doors, and a hill-hold assist function.

The Jetta price starts at RM 109,578 and goes all the way to RM 129,578 (on-road, without insurance). It comes with a five-year, manufacturer-backed warranty.

Considering the features it offers and the utilities it provides, the new Jetta is a car that you can definitely live with every day, cocooned in comfort and practicality.